Take a look at this video for a more detailed explanation:
Points to remember about the Second Conditional:
- They are made up of two clauses: The “If” clause” and the “Result” clause.
- The order of the clauses can be reversed: I would buy a house if I had a million dollars.*
- The verb in the “If” clause is in the past simple tense.
- In the “Result” clause we use would + infinitive
- The second conditional is used to talk about unreal (impossible or improbable) situations in the present moment.
- Notice in the sentence “If I were you, I would try to learn English.” I used the verb were. Normally the subject “I” goes with “was.” This is an exception to the rule and both “If I was you…” or “If I were you…” are acceptable.
* Remember that when the “Result” clause comes first a comma is not used to join the two clauses.
So, what do you think? The second conditional is rather simple, right?
“What would you do if you had a million dollars?”
Now that you understand how the second conditional works, let’s take a look at how some of the ABA teachers answered our question: “What would you do if you had a million dollars?”
Maria: “I would open my own business and buy a BMW : )”
Mark: “I would invest in or set up an environmentally friendly business that created employment for the community — as well as having a nice holiday!”
Ella: “I would probably put up a small venture. I would buy some books, travel to different places and meet smart people that could give me pieces of advice on how to spend my money wisely ”
See any similarities in the responses?
Well, let us know what you think and keep on learning English!
Best regards,
Written by: Ella, Maria and Sarah, Teachers from ABA English